Fig Tree Cafe is growing deeper roots in San Diego with the latest branch newly opened on August 27th in Liberty Station, San Diego. The original Fig Tree Cafe started up with owner Johan Engman in Fall of 2008 in Pacific Beach and the second one in Hillcrest. The concept of the cafe is simple. Delicious food using only local and fresh produce with several healthy options available. Vegetarian menu items are clearly marked and there are a multitude of choices for gluten-free dining.
The websites operate as separate businesses targeting its local neighborhood. The Liberty Station location offers an additional 6 brews on draft from its sister restaurants. Owner Johan Engman states that the menu is a little smaller than the other locations to give time for the kitchen to learn and adjust according to consumer feedback. Wine selection becomes a group effort as the entire staff gets to sample the tastings.
The happy hour menu runs from 3-6pm with $3 beers and mimosas and several small plates at $5 such as a bruschetta with brie and bacon with brown sugar. Other flavorful small plates are the signature house made meatballs and a stuffed portobello mushroom. The specials on opening day included a flank steak with figs and bacon wrapped scallops with a lobster risotto. By 6:30pm, only the tiramisu dessert was available for diners as the other options had sold out.
The Liberty Station spot opened up to little press but the house was full at lunch and dinner. Simple foods with grassroots marketing seems to be working well for the business. Alongside several powerhouses such as Stone Brewery and Tender Greens, Fig Tree Cafe’s third location is shining bright.
The Foodie Fashionista 
Oh my gosh. Those photos.